French public-sector workers strike over pay ahead of 2027 budget

Public-sector workers across France began a strike on September 29 to demand higher wages ahead of the adoption of the country’s 2027 budget.

A broad coalition of public-sector unions is organising more than 170 rallies across France, seeking to pressure the government to include pay increases for public servants in the draft budget, France24 reports. 

The draft budget is due to be presented on September 30. The unions also said the protests aim to “send a message to the presidential candidates” as the election campaign gets underway amid what they described as “criticism of public servants.”

Firefighters are also taking part in the strike. Following a summer marked by historic wildfires, they are holding a separate march in Paris before joining the main demonstration by civil servants.

Between 5,000 and 10,000 firefighters are expected to take part in the Paris procession, while between 20,000 and 40,000 other participants are expected to join the main march.

A teachers’ strike is also continuing in several regions of France.

By Sabina Mammadli